Patch and matrix striatonigral neurons differentially regulate locomotion

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Striatal Function

Background:

• Striatonigral neurons are known to influence locomotion.
• Their specific roles within the dorsal striatum's patch and matrix compartments are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distinct contributions of patch and matrix striatonigral neurons to locomotion.
• To elucidate the underlying neural mechanisms, including dopaminergic pathways.

Main Methods:

• Utilized molecular markers Kringle-Containing Protein Marking the Eye and the Nose (Kremen1) and Calbidin (Calb1) to identify neuronal populations.
• Employed optogenetics and fiber photometry in mouse models.
• Investigated the role of GABA-B receptor Gabbr1 in Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1-positive (ALDH1A1+) dopaminergic neurons.

Main Results:

• Patch and matrix striatonigral neurons exert opposing effects on locomotion.
• Patch neuron activation suppresses locomotion and inhibits dopamine release.
• Matrix neuron activation promotes locomotion and initially increases dopamine release.
• Deletion of Gabbr1 in ALDH1A1+ dopaminergic neurons abolished the locomotion-suppressing effect of patch neuron activation.

Conclusions:

• Patch striatonigral neurons suppress locomotion via inhibition of ALDH1A1+ nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons.
• Matrix striatonigral neurons promote locomotion.
• This study reveals a compartment-specific mechanism controlling locomotion in the dorsal striatum.